Why children need their own IRD numbers and how to get one if you need it.
When your child needs an IRD number
Your child will need an IRD number if they:
- earn income from any source
- get interest from a bank account or investment
- are included in your application for Working for Families, FamilyBoost or child support.
You can get an IRD number for your baby when you register their birth. You can also apply for Best Start payments at the same time – this is part of Working for Families. If you choose to apply for Best Start, an IRD number will be issued for your child as part of the application process.
IRD numbers are for life – keep them safe
IRD numbers are unique, and you keep the same IRD number for life.
Keep your child’s IRD number safe.
It can be hard to find a lost IRD number later in life. We usually need a phone number or bank account, and children may not have those forms of identification registered against their IRD number when it is created.
If you have lost a child’s IRD number, you can contact us on the following form.
Applying for a child’s IRD number
If your child did not get an IRD number at birth, you can apply for an IRD number for them. The process is the same as if you were applying for an adult.
It will depend on whether you are:
- living in New Zealand and not a new arrival
- living overseas
- a new arrival to New Zealand.
How do I apply for an IRD number?
Living in New Zealand and not a new arrival – IRD number application
Living overseas - IRD number application
New arrival to New Zealand - IRD number application
Extra documentation
You will need an identification document for your child. Check the requirements listed for each type of IRD number application process.
If your documents do not show your relationship with your child, you’ll also need a document such as:
- adoption papers
- parenting orders
- guardianship orders
- Statutory declaration form - IR595D.